Hi Mcraig, not knowing the machines, but knowing the type, I would personally not go for a combo machine.
While it would suit most people's needs that relate to this type of configuration, I feel that it is a compromise.
You can never expect a lathe to perform as a mill with the required attachment, rigidity is the problem.
As an old machinist from way back I'd always go for a lathe that was up to the job, preferring to spend the money on second hand industrial stuff, same money more machine scenario, and look at the mill as an entirely different requirement.
Before I made a choice on that set-up, I'd have to have a real time trial on the type of materials and tooling that I'd expect it to work with.
Once again I'd buy second hand to get the price down, but not for being too tight to spend the loot.
This way you get a machine that is already at market value and can be resold at that price if and when the machine doesn't come up to expectations.
This way you can run the machine for as long as it takes and if it's a no-go situation, then sell it on for what you paid for it, no loss, but lots the wiser.
They look good in the showroom but there's more to it than the pristine gloss of a machine on show.
Ian.  |